Open call: 2026/2027 Kuonyesha Art Fund

Key information:

• Location: Open to artists across Africa
• Application deadline: 28 February 2026
• Grant amount: Up to $5 000 per project
• Application fee: None

Key focus areas:

• Music & dance
• Visual Arts (painting, sculpture, crafts)
• Fashion & Product Design
• Literature & Publishing
• Audio-Visual Arts (animation, new media)
• Theatre & Film
• Folklore & Spoken Word
• Arts Research
• Multi-disciplinary & cross-cutting projects
• Exhibitions & arts dissemination

Eligibility:
Applications will be assessed based on:

• Artistic quality and originality
• Relevance and engagement with socio-political issues
• Audience reach and engagement strategies
• Collaboration and innovation potential
• Accessibility and engagement in underserved or new spaces

Who may apply:

• Artists of all ages living and working in Africa
• Established artists or groups with a proven track record
• Emerging artists exploring new concepts
• Artists seeking funding to progress developed ideas
• Artists aiming to improve work quality through research, training, or equipment
• Residency in Africa is required
• Projects must be implementable within the 2026 and 2027 cycle

Eligible Project Types:

• Music and dance
• Visual arts (painting, sculpture, crafts)
• Fashion & Product Design
• Literature & Publishing
• Video, Animation, New Media
• Theatre & Film
• Folklore & Spoken Word
• Arts Research & cross-disciplinary projects
• Exhibitions & publications

How to apply:

1. Visit https://CIVFUND.smartsimple.com
2. Create or log into your account
3. Select the Kuonyesha Art Fund 2026 and 2027 call
4. Follow the instructions to complete your application
5. Submit supporting materials: three to ten images or short video clips showcasing your work or project idea
6. Ensure your application is complete before the deadline

For support or queries, applicants can contact via the SmartSimple portal or email: kuonyesha@civsourceafrica.com

View the original call here.